Why Mexico got a red card to go down to 10 men on Cesar Montes tackle

Of the three red cards in the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup -- yes, three -- this one felt the toughest.

Mexico's Cesar Montes was sent off with a red card in stoppage time. It won't impact the result, but it will change things for the Mexican side going forward with a suspension for Montes.

"That's a harsh red card," Fox announcer Landon Donovan said on the broadcast moments after the red card was given.

Mexico was up 2-0 at the time, and well on its way to a victory. It was a tough one for Montes, though.

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Why did Mexico's Cesar Montes get a red card?

The red card was given for denying a goalscoring opportunity.

The question will be whether Montes actually did that, though.

South Africa was on a counterattack, and a shifty move forced Montes to get in the way. 

Fox's referee analyst, Mark Clattenburg, agreed with the decision. Donovan didn't.

You can watch it here:

It seems a bit of a tough break for Mexico.

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